WVC 20 - 2 - 4
§20-2-4. Possession of wildlife.
Except for wildlife, lawfully taken, killed or obtained, no
person may have in his or her possession any wildlife, or parts
thereof, during closed seasons. It is unlawful to possess any
wildlife, or parts thereof, which have been illegally taken, killed
or obtained. Any wildlife illegally taken, killed or possessed
shall be forfeited to the state and shall be counted toward the
daily, seasonal, bag, creel and possession limit of the person in
possession of, or responsible for, the illegal taking or killing of
any wildlife.

Wildlife lawfully taken outside of this state is subject to
the same laws and rules as that taken within this state.

Migratory wild birds may be possessed only in accordance with
the "Migratory Bird Treaty Act" and regulations thereunder.

The restrictions in this section do not apply to the director
or duly authorized agents, who may, in any manner, take or maintain
in captivity, at any time, any wildlife for the purpose of carrying
out the provisions of this chapter.

Wildlife, except protected birds, spotted fawn, and bear cubs,
killed or mortally wounded as a result of being accidentally or
inadvertently struck by a motor vehicle may be lawfully possessed
if the possessor of the wildlife provides notice of the claim
within twelve hours to a relevant law-enforcement agency, and
obtains a nonhunting game tag within twenty-four hours of
possession. The director shall propose administrative policy which addresses the means, methods and administrative procedures for
implementing the provisions of this section.

Persons required to deliver wildlife to an official checking
station may, in accordance with rules promulgated by the director,
electronically register the wildlife in lieu of the delivery to an
official checking station. "Electronically register" means
submission of all necessary and relevant information to the
division, in the manner designated by rule, in lieu of delivery of
the wildlife to an official checking station. The director may
promulgate rules, pursuant to article three, chapter twenty-nine-a
of this code, governing the electronic registration of wildlife.
Note: WV Code updated with legislation passed through the 2014 1st Special Session
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